Comprehensive World Cup Analysis and Insights

The Athletic app provides comprehensive World Cup coverage. Spain showed their strength with a 3-0 victory over Austria, reminding fans of their European Championship win two years ago. Spain’s commanding win suggests that France may not have an easy path to victory. Luis de la Fuente, Spain’s coach, emphasized the importance of building on this performance. Spain will next play Portugal in Dallas on July 6 after Portugal’s thrilling game against Croatia in Toronto.

Cristiano Ronaldo finally scored his first World Cup knockout stage goal during Portugal’s match. Despite being substituted late by Roberto Martinez, Goncalo Ramos emerged as the hero, scoring the winning goal. Luka Modric’s World Cup career likely concluded as Croatia failed to progress. Modric previously led Croatia to a World Cup final and received the Ballon d’Or. Coach Zlatko Dalic expressed regret over Modric’s career ending in defeat.

Switzerland also advanced, defeating Algeria 2-0 with goals from Breel Embolo and Dan Ndoye. The Swiss team will remain in Vancouver to face either Colombia or Ghana on July 7.

Matchday 22 Results

• Spain 3-0 Austria
• Portugal 2-1 Croatia
• Switzerland 2-0 Algeria

Goncalo Ramos’s impact in Portugal’s game against Croatia was noteworthy. Although Ronaldo had been predicted to end his World Cup career in Qatar, he continued to showcase his skills in the recent match. Ramos, who previously scored a hat-trick against Switzerland, may symbolize Portugal’s future. Nonetheless, Ronaldo’s performance provided crucial justification for his place in the team.

As Portugal sought a goal, surprising changes were made, including Ronaldo’s substitution for Ruben Neves. Ramos’s header from a cross by Rafa Leao secured Portugal’s progression. Ronaldo experienced a mix of emotions, being replaced and acknowledging an emotional tribute for his deceased teammate Diogo Jota. The team honored Jota and Andre Silva, remembering them on the anniversary of their passing.

Why Spain Could Be a Contender

After the U.S. eliminated Bosnia, conversations at the Fox stage highlighted America’s optimism. Spain, however, demonstrated potential in their victory against Austria, showcasing efficiency with 65% possession and a strong defense. Mikel Oyarzabal’s standout performance and Spain not conceding a single shot on target mark them as formidable competitors.

A quarter-final could pit the U.S. against Spain if both advance. Pablo Zabaleta of the FIFA Study Group suggested that Spain, with their ability to maintain possession, could challenge France.

Spain’s historical success, including their World Cup victory in 2010, provides hope for another triumph. Oyarzabal’s goal, Spain’s first knockout stage goal since 2010, offers potential for history to repeat.

Potential Star: Johan Manzambi

Johan Manzambi has been a revelation for Switzerland during the World Cup. Despite his youth, the midfielder has made significant contributions, such as scoring against Bosnia and assisting against Algeria. Manzambi’s versatility and impressive performances have drawn Premier League interest.

Friday’s Matches

Lionel Messi will play in Miami as Argentina face Cape Verde. Though a surprise is unlikely, lessons from Argentina’s previous World Cup upset linger. Coach Scaloni, in his 100th game, looks to uphold his successful tenure.

In Kansas City, Egypt assesses Mohamed Salah’s fitness against Australia due to a hamstring issue. Colombia will meet Ghana in Dallas. Colombia’s defensive mistakes cost them a perfect group stage, but they remain strong contenders. Ghana stands as a resilient challenge, potentially extending the match into penalties.

Today’s Games

• Australia vs Egypt (2pm ET; 7pm BST)
• Argentina vs Cape Verde (6pm ET; 11pm BST)
• Colombia vs Ghana (9:30pm ET; 2:30am BST)